Losing weight over the age of 50/post menopause is downright difficult.  In fact, maintaining your weight at this age/stage of life is evey tricky.  As we age, our metabolism tends to slow down, and post menopause our hormones also play a role in slowing our metabolism.  This causes weight gain, even if you haven’t changed what you are eating/how much you move.  No fair!!

Calorie Restriction – No Thanks!

I asked my physician about weight post menopause, and her answer was that you have to eat 25% fewer calories if you want to maintain your weight.  But, I’m not 25% less hungry!  Actually, I’m not any less hungry.   This just seems unacceptable to me, so I decided to do something about it.

Intermittent Fasting

The combination of intermittent fasting 4-5 days/week, and working out 6 days a week seems to be a great solution for me.  For intermittent fasting, I try to have nothing to eat or drink (except water) after supper.  I don’t eat breakfast until after my morning workout and try to hold off “breaking my fast” until late morning or lunch time.  This gives me a fasting ratio of 16:8 where I eat 8 hours of the day and fast for 16.

Boost Metabolism

It took me awhile to build up to this, but it has actually helped boost my metabolism and decrease the amount I eat.  I don’t restrict what I’m eating during the “feasting” hours, and eat when I am hungry.  I tend to give myself a break on the weekend, and enjoy breakfast with my family and a glass of wine in the evening.

Vary Your Workouts

The workout portion of my plan has been to vary my workouts.  I try to incorporate strength training, cardio, and core exercises along with stretching/flexibility each week.  When the gyms shutdown during Covid, my workout routine vanished.  I had to invent things to do at home, and came up with a fun, fitness board game.  My hand drawn version kept my workouts challenging and entertaining.  After the pandemic loosened, I started playing it with friends and family, and they loved it.  My Fit N Fun Games Bootcamp Edition combines each of these exercise type into one fitness workout that can be done daily or several times/week, and is the perfect way to vary your exercise routine with one game.

Fit N Fun Games Bootcamp Edition

This unique fitness board game is perfect for beginners and seasoned exercisers alike.  We demonstrate the exercises with modifications.  The Challenge Cards really increase the competitiveness and fun in the workout.  When challenging friends, I really compete at my highest level, and when playing solo, I challenge myself to do more reps of an exercise or hold a position longer than I previously did.  I have found this to be a well-rounded workout that I consistently do, because it is fun.

Maintaining your weight after the age of 50/post menopause isn’t easy, but it is possible!

Hugs & Health  – Michelle

**Disclaimer:  Please always consult your physician before beginning this or any exercise program.